Stock up on contact lens cases and solution so you can properly look after your lenses. Ensuring you have the correct accessories to maintain your colored contact lenses is an important step in your routine. Whether you have purchased daily or reusable colored contact lenses, you will need a contact lens case and solution.

In order to prepare your colored contact lenses for use, you will need to soak them for at least 2 hours in fresh contact lens solution. This step is important for single-use and reusable contact lenses because the storage solution in the contact lens vials and blister packs is a higher concentration of the contact lens solution. In order to ensure the lenses are comfortable for your eyes, you will need to soak them in your multipurpose contact lens solution. 

Make sure you have an airtight contact lens case for your contact lenses. This is where you will place your contact lenses once you have opened them. To clean your contact lens case, rinse it with fresh contact lens solution and then empty it. Refill your case with fresh contact lens solution, ready to soak your lenses. Take your colored contact lenses out of their blister packs or vials and place them in your case, ensuring they are submerged in fresh contact lens solution. Screw the lids on tight and leave for at least 2 hours.

You can also use your lens solution to clean the surface of the contact lenses. Place the contact lens on the end of your finger and apply a few drops to the lenses. Gently rub the contact lenses and rinse with more solution to remove any debris and build-up. This is an especially important step if you have reusable contact lenses. Carry out a clean after every use and regularly check your contact lenses if you do not wear them every day. You will want to inspect the surface and replace the contact lens solution often to ensure they remain ready for use. If your contact lenses dry up do not attempt to rehydrate them. If you notice any major build-up or damage to the lenses, do not continue to wear them. For your eye safety, it is important to adhere to the duration of the lenses as the surface will have been made for a specific use. Always wash your hands before handling your contact lenses.

There are several types of contact lens cases available, some of which are able to aid with rinsing your contact lenses. These include:

• Standard Contact Lens Case - A standard contact lens case features a flat design with two screw lids that are usually labelled Left and Right.
• Contact Lens Travel Case - A contact lens travel case may include extra accessories so that you have everything you need when you travel. The kits often include a standard contact lens case, tweezers, and lens wand all placed inside a larger case that sometimes contains a small mirror.
• Contact Lens Barrel Case - As the name suggests, a barrel case is in the shape of a barrel with a screw top lid and two baskets for your contact lenses.
• Contact Lens Barrel Washer Case - A barrel washer case has the same shape and design as a standard barrel case but includes a spinning contact lens cleaner function that will help rinse your contact lenses.

Most contact lens cases will include an embossed ‘L’ and ‘R’ so that you can identify left and right. It is best to always insert the same lens into the same eye. If you have a different prescription for each eye, this detail is especially helpful for ensuring you are wearing the correct contact lens and enjoying clear vision.

When it comes to choosing the right solution for cleaning your colored contact lenses or any type of contact lens, it is best to choose a complete contact lens solution such as an all-in-one or multipurpose lens solution. A standard all in one contact lens solution is safe for your eyes and can be used to clean and store your contact lenses. It is important to only use contact lens solution for all your lens care and for rinsing any of your lens accessories such as cases and tools. Do not be tempted to use water, saliva, or any other household products to clean your lenses as they are not suitable for your eyes and can introduce harmful bacteria.

The key to having a positive experience with your colored contact lenses, even if you have never worn contact lenses before, is using the right care routine. Find out more about how you can care for your contact lenses by visiting our Lens Care Guides. Take the time to learn how to prepare, insert, and store your contact lenses correctly to keep your eyes safe and healthy during use. Once you have practiced this routine, it will become second nature to look after your lenses when you are travelling for cosplay conventions or the Halloween season. If you wear natural colored contact lenses as part of your everyday routine, you will quickly become used to caring for your lenses. Make sure to regularly replace your contact lens case and tools as well as check the expiry date of your contact lens solution.